UK FACE & BODY ART CONVENTION 

Where is the 2026 FABAC UK event being held?

FABACUK is taking place at the Doubletree by Hilton Coventry, from Friday 9th – Sunday 11th October, with exclusive masterclasses available on Thursday 8th and Monday 12th October booked separately or as part of a package.

 

I’m interested in attending the FABAC UK event. How do I book a ticket?

You can view the many ticket packages from day tickets to combination options, on our website. Simply visit https://www.ukfacepaintingconvention.com/packages and scroll down to the Book Now button.

 

I’m new to the world of face paint and body art. Is this convention right for me?

It absolutely is, and our full-day beginner's class at FABAC is the perfect place to start. Join us on Friday 9th October at UK FABAC and discover why so many artists say attending the convention was one of the best decisions they made for their creative journey! Priced at just £149 you'll learn the essential skills, techniques, and business tips from experienced professional face painters Kez and Helen, who will guide you every step of the way. You'll leave with the confidence and knowledge to start offering face painting as part of your business straight away, as well as a beginner painting kit valued to £75! And don't worry if you're attending on your own – many of our attendees arrive as beginners and leave with not only new skills but new friends, and a whole new level of inspiration.

 

What should I do when I arrive at the hotel?

When you arrive at the front entrance of the Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Coventry, there will be clear signage leading you to the FABAC convention desk. Here you will be able to meet the FABAC team, register to enter the evening competitions and collect your pink party pre paid raffle tickets. Please note - If you are staying at the hotel for any duration, you will need to check in at the hotel reception desk separately.

 

I’ve parked a vehicle in the car park – do I need to register it?

A parking eye system is now active at the Hilton hotel, so please register your vehicle at the reception desk.

 

Is there a cashpoint at the hotel?

Unfortunately, this Hilton hotel does not have a cashpoint and is a cashless venue, however there are some available in the local vicinity.

 

What are the room amenities at the Hilton hotel?

As currently advised on the Hilton website, in room amenities include a Safe, Iron and Hair Dryer.

 

I’m attending for the first time. Do you have any advice, tips or tricks?

First time at FABAC? We've got you covered! We know attending your first convention can feel a little daunting, especially when it seems like everyone already knows each other. That's why we're introducing our Newbie Networking Sessions at FABAC 2026!Each morning of the event, we'll be hosting a relaxed and friendly meet-up exclusively for first-time attendees. It's the perfect opportunity to meet fellow newcomers, ask questions, get your bearings, and connect with some familiar faces before the day's activities begin. At FABAC, you're not just attending an event, you're joining a community. 💜

 

What is the difference between a Masterclass and a Workshop?

In case you’re new here, or still investigating the best package for you, we thought we’d explain the key differences between the two. Masterclasses are premium, hands-on deep-dive training sessions taking place on Thursday and Monday. These smaller-group classes offer more in-depth learning and practical experience with your instructor. Spaces are limited and are available to book now – so if there's one you've got your eye on, don't delay! Workshops form part of the main convention programme and run throughout the FABAC weekend. These sessions offer a fantastic variety of learning opportunities and will be available to book in due course. Our advice? Start exploring the workshop schedule now so you can plan your perfect FABAC weekend, and secure your Masterclass place before they're gone!

 

How do I sign up for a Masterclass?

To view our wide range of masterclasses head to the Masterclasses tab on the website. Each class is explained in more detail and features a Book Now button, where you can purchase a space on this specific class. Be quick however, as these are selling out fast!

 

How do I sign up for a particular Workshop?

The timetable of workshops is available to view online, so you can start to plan the sessions you would like to attend. At the end of July, we will open registration for these sessions to all delegates. This will be communicated to via our email newsletters, so keep your eyes on your inbox for that information coming soon!

 

What is the FABAC APP?

The FABAC APP will be available to download in due course – and prior to workshop release. We will share this information, along with how to access and a quick starter guide via our newsletter communication, so please ensure we are added to your contact list so not to miss this.

 

How do I login / register to the FABAC APP?

Information to follow.

 

How do I print of my FABAC tickets / convention badge?

Information to follow.

 

Can I purchase items at the event?

You can indeed! We have a retailer hall brimming with wonderful products! Featured retailers currently include: Craft-N-Go, Face Painting Hub, Magic Box, Pro-Aiir, Rainbow Faces.

 

When is the retailer hall open?

The vendor hall will be open for most of the convention, operating with the trading times listed below:

Thursday: 1700 to 1800 - Exclusive entry to Instructors and Thursday Masterclass Attendees and 2030 to 2200

Friday: 1030 to 1215 and 1300 to 1800

Saturday: 0900 to 1215 and 1300 to 1630

Sunday: 0900 to 1600

 

Is an evening included in my ticket price?

An evening meal is only included for delegates whose ticket packages include an overnight stay, and only for the night(s) you are staying. This will be clearly marked on your tickets for easy visibility during the convention.

 

Will there be a dedicated space to jam?

Yes! This year there will be a space dedicated to demonstrations and jamming! There will be a few house rules within this space, but this will be open for a large proportion of the convention to use, enjoy and be creative!

 

Is photography permitted at the event?

Photography will be taking place throughout the event and will be carried out by members of the FABAC team. You are welcome to take your own photographs, provided you have the permission of both the artist and the model. To respect our instructors and ensure everyone gets the most from their classes, please do not take photographs or videos while demonstrations or teaching are in progress. Once the class has finished, please ask your tutor for permission before capturing any images of the completed work.

 

Who are BAPIA?

BAPIA (the Balloon and Party Industry Alliance) is the organiser of FABAC and the UK's leading membership organisation for the balloon, party and celebration industry, representing more than 3,000 members. Membership provides a wide range of valuable benefits, including public liability and employers' liability insurance, exclusive discounts with leading wholesalers, business support, marketing materials, and practical resources such as risk assessment templates, terms and conditions templates, and manufacturer guidance to help members run safe, successful businesses.

 

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring the following items to help you get the most out of your weekend:

•Your mini face painting kit, including sponges, brushes and paints for jamming sessions and classes.

•A sketch pad for practising techniques and making notes during classes.

•Dark-coloured towels or flannels for removing face paint.

•A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

•A fun, friendly attitude and plenty of smiles!

•Your shopping list (and perhaps your wallet!) for the traders' room.

 

I have dietary needs, who should I talk to?

Please share your dietary needs with Bex – hello@facepaintingconvention.com, she will ensure this is noted with your booking.

 

What happens in the evenings when classes have finished?

Once the classes have finished, there are plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the evening. Please refer to the event schedule for full details and timings. https://www.ukfacepaintingconvention.com/schedule

​

What is the style for the Think Pink evening?

Think Pink Night - Get ready to paint the evening pink! Whether your style is bold and flamboyant, effortlessly cool, or chic and sophisticated, we want to see everyone embracing the theme in their own unique way. 

From head-to-toe pink statements to subtle stylish touches, it's all about celebrating the colour and having fun with it. There'll be a Best Dressed prize up for grabs, but more than anything, this is a laid-back evening to raise awareness and fundraise for Breast Cancer now, and celebrate everyone looking their very best in pink. 

So, however you wear it, think pink and make it your own!

​

What is the dress code for the Saturday Gala event?

If you're joining us for our Saturday Gala Evening, this year's theme is Masquerade!

The theme is yours to interpret however you like...think elegant Venetian masks, playful jesters, vibrant carnival-inspired looks, colourful Cinco de Mayo influences, or anything in between. Whether you opt for sophisticated glamour with a touch of mystery or go all out in full costume, we'd love to see your creativity shine.

Don't forget - there'll be a Best Dressed prize awarded on Saturday evening, so embrace the theme and make it unforgettable!